River Nature and Trails
The Riera de Merlès has numerous pools of flowing water that offer opportunities for swimming and recreation in summer. If you are planning your trip around swimming, check local conditions before your visit. This lets you plan a summer stay by the water as a focus in its own right, while the hiking trails offer further ways to explore the landscape.
The Riera de Merlès natural area was included in the PEIN under Decree 328/1992, designated a Site of Community Importance (SCI) for the first time in 1997, and expanded into Catalonia’s Natura 2000 network by Government Agreement 112/2006 of 5 September. This history of protection spans its inclusion in the PEIN, its designation as an SCI, and the expansion of the Natura 2000 network.
There are several route descriptions for hikers to choose from. The PR C-44, the Prats de Lluçanès hiking trail, is a figure-eight loop that passes through the three municipalities of Prats de Lluçanès, Lluçà, and Santa Maria de Merlès. The easy Passejada al voltant de la Riera de Merlès goes through a unique and sensitive natural area of Lluçanès, with water and the biodiversity of the Riera at its heart. You can choose between a route through three municipalities and a trail with a particular focus on nature.
Historic Buildings and Traces of Time
The Pont Gòtic de Merlès is located about 500 metres east of the town centre. The Gothic bridge dates from the 14th or 15th century, is 34 metres long, and has three semicircular arches. Its date, length, and arch design give the bridge a clearly defined architectural profile.
The Molí d'Escrigues mill is located on the west bank of the Riera de Merlès, on a large rocky area near the Escrigues farmhouse. It is documented from the 17th century and was rebuilt in 1763. The building’s setting by the river and its history—from its earliest documentation to its later reconstruction—are key features.
Sant Martí de Merlès is documented from 976 and was referred to as “domus Sancti Martini” in 988. Parish functions are documented there between 1025 and 1050. The church has a single nave and a barrel vault; it retains the rectangular shape and original orientation of its Romanesque structure. Its history and architecture can be explored through the different dates and specific structural features.
Sant Pau de Pinós also combines historical records with surviving fabric. It acquired parish functions early on; Pinós is documented in the 893 consecration record of Santa Maria de Merlès. Sant Pau de Pinós preserves part of the original nave and a semicircular apse with a window whose jambs have double bevels. The description of the apse and window complements the surviving parts of the nave without reducing the building to a single feature.
Getting There and Planning Your Trip
Mobility is important when planning your trip: a car is essential for reaching Santa Maria de Merlès and getting around the area; there is no public transport. Check local transport conditions before travelling, and take them into account when choosing your accommodation and planning your days.
Discover more destinations: Sant Vicenç de Castellet, Tona, L'espunyola, Pruit, Rellinars, Campins, Sant Martí Sarroca, Castellterçol.
For the broader travel overview: Barcelona.
